Kevin Millwood's journey through Major League Baseball is a testament to his skill and adaptability on the mound. Born on December 24, 1974, in Gastonia, North Carolina, Millwood grew up with a passion for baseball, which eventually led him to the professional leagues. He was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the 11th round of the 1993 MLB Draft, and after honing his skills in the minor leagues, he made his MLB debut with the Braves on July 14, 1997.
Millwood quickly established himself as a reliable starting pitcher. In 1999, he had a standout season with the Braves, posting an impressive 18-7 record and a 2.68 ERA. His performance earned him a spot on the National League All-Star team and he finished third in the Cy Young Award voting that year. Millwood was part of a formidable Braves rotation that included Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz, contributing to the team's dominance in the late 1990s.
In 2003, Millwood was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies, where he continued to demonstrate his pitching prowess. That year, he threw a no-hitter against the San Francisco Giants on April 27, becoming the first Phillies pitcher to achieve the feat since 1991. His time with the Phillies solidified his reputation as a dependable starter, and he became a fan favorite in Philadelphia.
Millwood's career took him to several teams over the following years. He signed with the Cleveland Indians in 2005, where he led the American League with a 2.86 ERA, despite a modest 9-11 record. His performance with the Indians earned him the American League ERA title, showcasing his ability to excel even when his win-loss record did not fully reflect his effectiveness on the mound.
After his stint with the Indians, Millwood joined the Texas Rangers in 2006. He spent four seasons with the Rangers, serving as a veteran presence in their rotation. In 2009, he recorded 13 wins and helped guide the Rangers to a competitive season. His leadership and experience were valuable assets to the team during his tenure.
Millwood's later career saw him play for the Baltimore Orioles, Colorado Rockies, and Seattle Mariners. In 2012, while with the Mariners, he was part of a combined no-hitter against the Los Angeles Dodgers on June 8. Millwood pitched the first six innings before leaving the game due to injury, and five relievers completed the no-hitter. This achievement marked a memorable moment in the twilight of his career.
Throughout his 16-year career in Major League Baseball, Kevin Millwood was known for his durability and consistency. He finished with a career record of 169 wins and 152 losses, along with a 4.11 ERA and 2,083 strikeouts. Millwood's ability to adapt to different teams and maintain a steady level of performance made him a respected figure among his peers and fans alike.
Off the field, Millwood was known for his quiet demeanor and professionalism.
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